Harrogate Town solve issue on left flank with capture of former Stockport County and Tranmere Rovers defender Ethan Bristow
Simon Weaver has finally found a suitable option to fill the last remaining gap in his Harrogate Town squad.
The Sulphurites looked set to kick-off their 2026/27 National League campaign without a recognised left-back on their books, but have swooped just in time for this Saturday’s season-opener at home to Solihull Moors.
Just two hours before the new term gets underway, the Wetherby Road outfit have unveiled former Stockport County and Tranmere Rovers defender Ethan Bristow as their 12th summer signing.
The 24-year-old arrives at the Marcy Fitness Stadium as a free agent having spent 2025/26 in League Two with Tranmere, and says he is determined to help Town push for an immediate return to that level.
“As soon I spoke to the manager it was an easy decision and I’m looking forward to trying to help the club get back to League Two next season,” Bristow said.
“The manager has a clear idea of what he wants to do and where he wants to take this team.
“I can’t wait to play in front of the fans, and hopefully we can start the season with a win on Saturday.”
With Weaver intent on lining up with a three-man defence and wing-backs this season, he has been in the market for a left-sided option all summer.
Romanian youngster Bogdan Marian impressed during a three-game trial period, but was not offered a contract, with a bid then submitted for a “senior left-back” earlier this week.
But Weaver has eventually opted to bring in Bristow, who began his career at Reading and played 11 games after making his debut for the Royals in 2020.
He moved to Tranmere two years later, and off the back of a season during which he featured more than 50 times, Minnesota United swooped to take the left wing-back to the MLS.
A loan to Stockport County followed in 2024/25, with Bristow playing 13 matches as the Hatters were crowned League Two champions, before he returned to Tranmere for a second time on a free transfer at the start of last term, making 21 appearances in all competitions.
“He’s quick, athletic and got a good energy about him,” said Lloyd Kerry, Town’s Head of Player Recruitment.
“He’s played at a good level so we think he’ll be a good fit for us.
"It was important to fill this position. We’ve been trying hard all summer, so we’re delighted to have got this deal done.”
Bristow, who has been capped five times for Saint Kitts & Nevis at international level, has been handed Harrogate’s number three shirt and is in line to make his debut against Solihull Moors this Saturday afternoon (3pm).